Keeping the skeleton strong and healthy is a complex process. The amount, structure, composition, and position of the bones should all be correct. Any errors or changes in these can lead to bone disease. This article discusses the various causes of bone disease in humans.
There is considerable scientific knowledge about the causes, prevention, and treatment of bone disorders, but many gaps remain in this information. For example, it is not clearly understood why fractures occur in so many people. In this bone biology review, we look at some of the recent discoveries in skeletal genetics and metabolism that are expected to improve our understanding of bone health.
Bone density testing is an important tool in the management of osteoporosis. Several different radiological modalities are available to measure bone density. Although each one has its own advantages and disadvantages, DXA is the most widely used. However, there are certain DXA scan errors that DXA operators and general radiographers should be aware of.
As in childhood and adolescence, the role of physical activity in bone health is important throughout the adult years as well. Healthcare providers should promote physical activity in all adults according to their capabilities. In addition to healthy bones, regular physical activity is beneficial in maintaining an optimum body weight. It also improves muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness. It keeps metabolic parameters in check. Resistance training and weight-bearing impact activities have been demonstrated to be especially beneficial to skeletal health. Examples of bone-healthy physical activities include walking, jogging, running, jumping, climbing stairs, lifting weights, racquet sports, soccer, dancing, and hiking.
What are look up tables in radiography? The gray-scale values in a digital image consist of binary numbers. It is possible to reassign these numbers to other values based on predetermined rules. These rules are defined in a look-up table (LUT) which is essentially a reference histogram. A look-up table (LUT) is a series of mathematical equations that are used for post-processing in radiography. It is used to correct values using a mapping function. It allows the gray-scale values in the recorded image to be remapped to new values to improve the final image in some way, such as appropriate brightness and contrast. LUTs are specific to anatomic areas.
It is important for older adults to maintain a high functional status and engage in regular physical activity according to their capabilities. Older adults who enjoy an overall good health status can follow the same guidelines for physical activity as outlined for younger individuals. However, for older adults with some physical limitations or compromised bone health, weight-supported activities may be more appropriate. Examples of such activities include walking in deep water, aqua aerobics, stationary bicycle riding, and floor exercises. Importantly, people with less than optimal bone health in old age can often safely perform resistance exercises with proper training and supervision.